We encourage international students to have a multi-focused job search strategy consisting of US Search, Home Country Search and Global Search. Students should be aware of industry recruitment timelines and process and search simultaneously. Some tips of where to focus first as an international student looking for an internship or job:
- Know your Visa Status, Work Authorization status, what is OPT or CPT, what is an OPT Stem extension, what is the process to request these for you or for the employer side. –> Do not expect people who were not on this visa to know the details, it is on you to know them.
- Focus in on what type of jobs/internships you want and in which industries so you can target your applications and networking
- Start networking as soon as possible, don’t wait until you are applying to connect. Social capital and trust in the US professional world can take time to build, so connect with folks in the company (outside of HR too) before applying to build that relationship. Having an advocate in the company who can speak to your character and work effort is very important.
- Get your application documents and strategy ready to go and make sure to make them as strong as possible (resume, cover letter, plans, pitches, etc.)
- Meet with one of our fantastic coaches to talk through the above actions or hone in on more specific strategies on documents, networking, applications, plans, etc. Click the Schedule An Appointment Link above.
Here are further AU resources to help you
Both incoming and current students can work with ISSS. They can provide assistance with immigration documents, provide an orientation and ensure you are adjusting to life in the United States. Additionally, they provide guidance to students for understanding and complying with immigration law. Check out their International Student and Scholar Services website.
Curricular Practical Training (CPT) is an employment option for F-1 students engaged in an academic program for whom work is considered an integral part of their students. CPT authorization allows you to accept a one semester paid or unpaid internship in your field of study. Learn more about Curricular Practical Training from ISSS.
Optional Practical Training (OPT) is an employment option for F-1 students who wish to gain work experience directly related to their field of study. Students must attend a session before applying for OPT, learn more about Optional Practical Training from ISSS.
- In February 2025, we issued updated university guidance on immigration policies and actions, including steps for community members for potential encounters with law enforcement.
- International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides ongoing support and resources to members of our community from countries around the world.
- The WCL Immigration Law Program and Immigration Justice Clinic and the Defending the AU Dream Initiative provide free immigration legal services to undocumented and other immigrant undergraduate and graduate students who are currently enrolled in colleges or universities in the DC metropolitan area.
- The Immigration Lab is directed by Professor Ernesto Castañeda and works with AU undergraduate and graduate students to conduct research on a wide range of migration issues.
From D.C.
